Elbow Arthroplasty

The elbow is the second most commonly affected joint in haemophilic patients. As for other target joints, the strategy of treatment starts from a medical management, and in case of failure, more specific approaches have to be chosen. Radioactive or chemical synovectomy represent valid options but may not be adequate in moderate arthropathies. In such cases, surgical procedures as arthroscopic or open synovectomy are useful. Advanced haemophilic arthropathy of the elbow may be severely disabling, particularly for younger patients. In these conditions, a total elbow replacement may be a good option. Thanks to modern implant designs and materials, this procedure has shown excellent clinical outcomes and an acceptable survival rate. Nevertheless, it remains a complex surgery and considering the postoperative restrictions and risks, it requires a careful selection of patients.

Keywords: Elbow arthritis, Elbow arthroplasty, Haemophilia, Haemophilic elbow, Stiff elbow, Total elbow replacement.